Method and apparatus for respectively transmitting signals from a plurality of client modules that share components of a wireless network device

ABSTRACT

A network interface including a radio frequency (RF) system and a media access controller (MAC). The RF system wirelessly communicates with an access point (AP). The MAC includes client modules. A first client module transmits a first signal from a host to the AP via the RF system in accordance with a first wireless communication standard. A second client module transmits a second signal from the host to the AP via the RF system in accordance with a second wireless communication standard. The second client module determines a quality level of the second signal transmitted from the second client module to the AP, and based on the quality level of the second signal, hands off access to the RF system from the second client module to the first client module to allow the first client module to transmit the first signal to the AP via the RF system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/586,859, filed on Oct. 26, 2006, (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,094,631), whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 60/748,937,filed on Dec. 9, 2005 and 60/808,077, filed on May 24, 2006. Thedisclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to wireless network devices, and moreparticularly to a coexistence system for wireless network devices havingmultiple wireless sub-clients that share components.

BACKGROUND

In a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), client stations can communicatewith other client stations in an ad hoc mode or with an access point(AP) in an infrastructure mode. WLANs typically have a range in thehundreds of feet. The client stations typically include a wirelessnetwork interface that is associated with a host device. The host devicecan be a desktop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobilephone, a laptop, a personal computer (PC), a printer, a digital camera,an internet protocol (IP) phone, etc. The AP provides connectivity to anetwork, such as the Internet or other network.

The wireless network interface may be compatible with WorldwideInteroperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX). WiMAX systems schedulecommunications with client stations by allocating a time slot.Initially, the client station registers with a base station. The basestation transmits MAPs that indicate when the client station shouldtransmit and receive data. When the WiMAX client does not transmit orreceive data during the regularly scheduled MAP, the base station mayderegister the client. Bluetooth is another wireless standard thatoperates at shorter ranges than WLAN.

When implemented by the same device, WiMAX, WLAN, and Bluetooth clientsmay share components to reduce the cost of the device. Shared componentsmay include the antenna, radio frequency (RF) subsystems, such astransmitters and receivers, baseband processors, etc. The sharing ofcomponents should be coordinated. Further, WiMAX, WiFi, and Bluetoothmay use the same frequency or nearby frequencies, which may causeinterference.

SUMMARY

A network interface is provided and includes a radio frequency systemconnected to an antenna and a media access controller. The media accesscontroller includes client modules and a control module. The clientmodules include a first client module and a second client module. Eachof the client modules wirelessly communicates with a network via (i) theradio frequency system and (ii) the antenna. Each of the client modulesis controllable to be in an active state or a sleep state. The controlmodule is configured to (i) determine a first priority level of thefirst client module, and (ii) determine a second priority level of thesecond client module. The control module is also configured to, based onthe first priority level and the second priority level, (i) control thefirst client module to be in the active state to permit communicationbetween the first client module and the radio frequency system, and (ii)control the second client module to be in the sleep state to preventcommunication between the second client module and the radio frequencysystem.

A wireless network interface includes a component, a first sub-clientmodule that operates using a first wireless protocol, and a secondsub-client module that operates using a second wireless protocol. Thefirst and second wireless protocols are different. The first and secondsub-client modules share use of the component. A component sharingcontrol module selectively transitions the first sub-client module intoand out of a state to allow the second sub-client module to use thecomponent during the state.

In another feature, at least one of the first sub-client module and thesecond sub-client module includes an active sub-client. At least one ofthe first sub-client module and the second sub-client module includes atleast one of a Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX)sub-client module, a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) sub-clientmodule, and a Bluetooth sub-client module.

In other features, the state includes a sleep state. The firstsub-client module sends a signal to the second sub-client moduleindicating the first sub-client module is entering the sleep state. Atleast one of the first sub-client module and the component sharingcontrol module prevents the second sub-client module from using thecomponent within a predetermined time in which the first sub-clientmodule is scheduled to receive a transmission.

In other features, the component includes at least one of an antenna anda radio frequency (RF) subsystem. The RF subsystem includes at least oneof a filter, a switch, a transmitter (Tx), a receiver (Rx), and a baseband processor (BBP) module. The first sub-client module selectivelyreduces signal power to decrease signal interference with signals fromthe second sub-client module.

In other features, at least one of the first sub-client module and thecomponent sharing control module prevents the second sub-client modulefrom receiving transmissions within a predetermined time in which thefirst sub-client module is scheduled to receive a transmission. Thestate includes at least one of an idle state and a low power state.

In still other features, the first sub-client module includes a WiMAXsub-client module and the second sub-client module includes a WLANsub-client module. The WLAN sub-client module transmits a reserve signalto the component sharing control module to reserve the component for aduration of time when the WiMAX sub-client module is due to receive aMAP. The reserve signal includes a CTS-Self protocol. The WLANsub-client module receives transmissions from a network. The WLANsub-client module sends transmissions to a network.

In other features, a system includes the wireless network interface anda base station that communicates with a network. The WiMAX sub-clientmodule transmits a busy signal to the base station during WLANsub-client module use of the component.

In other features, a system includes the wireless network interface. TheWLAN sub-client module detects a WiMAX signal through at least one of arepeated MAP transmission and a signal from the WiMAX sub-client module.The system further includes a first access point (AP) for the WLANsub-client module. The WLAN sub-client module informs the first AP ofinterference with the WiMAX signal and that the first AP should switchtransmission channels. The WLAN sub-client module scans for a second AP.

In still other features, the first sub-client module includes a WLANsub-client module and the second sub-client module includes a WiMAXsub-client module. The component includes radio frequency (RF)subsystems that selectively switch from a WLAN frequency to a WiMAXfrequency during the state. The WLAN sub-client module periodicallyreceives signals during the state. At least one of the periodic signalsis skipped when the WiMAX sub-client module is due to receive signals.The component sharing control module selectively determines the statewith a base station when WLAN sub-client module network connectionquality is above a WLAN network disconnect threshold. The base stationcommunicates with the WiMAX sub-client module. The component sharingcontrol module includes a medium access control module (MAC).

In other features, a system includes the wireless network interface andfurther includes access points (AP) and base stations. The MAC includesa mobility manager module that selectively connects the first sub-clientmodule and the second sub-client module to each of the APs and basestations. The MAC further includes a coexistence control module thatcontrols states of the first sub-client module and the second sub-clientmodule. The states comprise idle, scan, network entry, registered, andactive. The coexistence control module determines which of the firstsub-client and the second sub-client has priority for the component andcontrols the selective transitions based on the priority.

In still other features, a wireless network interface method includesoperating a first sub-client module using a first wireless protocol andoperating a second sub-client module using a second wireless protocol.The first and second wireless protocols are different. The first andsecond sub-client modules share use of component. The method selectivelytransitions the first sub-client module into and out of a state to allowthe second sub-client module to use the component during the state.

In a wireless network interface method, at least one of the firstsub-client module and the second sub-client module includes an activesub-client. At least one of the first sub-client module and the secondsub-client module includes at least one of a WiMAX sub-client module, aWLAN sub-client module, and a Bluetooth sub-client module. In thewireless network interface method, selectively transitioning the firstsub-client module into and out of the state includes selectivelytransitioning the first sub-client module into and out of a sleep state.

In other features, the first sub-client module sends a signal to thesecond sub-client module indicating the first sub-client module isentering the sleep state. The wireless network interface method furtherincludes preventing the second sub-client module from using thecomponent within a predetermined time in which the first sub-clientmodule is scheduled to receive a transmission. The component includes atleast one of an antenna and an RF subsystem.

In other features, the RF subsystem includes at least one of a filter, aswitch, a Tx, an Rx, and a BBP module. The wireless network interfacemethod further includes selectively reducing signal power to decreasesignal interference with signals from the second sub-client module. Thewireless network interface method further includes preventing the secondsub-client module from receiving transmissions within a predeterminedtime in which the first sub-client module is scheduled to receive atransmission. Selectively transitioning the first sub-client module intoand out of the state includes selectively transitioning the firstsub-client module into and out of at least one of an idle state and alow power state.

In other features, the first sub-client module includes a WiMAXsub-client module and the second sub-client module includes a WLANsub-client module. The wireless network interface method furtherincludes transmitting a reserve signal to the component sharing controlmodule. The method also includes reserving the component for a durationof time when the WiMAX sub-client module is due to receive a MAP. Forthe wireless network interface method, the reserve signal includes aCTS-Self protocol. The WLAN sub-client module receives transmissionsfrom a network. The WLAN sub-client module sends transmissions to anetwork, and a base station communicates with the network. The WiMAXsub-client module transmits a busy signal to the base station duringWLAN sub-client module use of the component.

In other features, the wireless network interface method furtherincludes detecting a WiMAX signal through at least one of a repeated MAPtransmission and a signal from the WiMAX sub-client module. The methodfurther includes informing the first AP of interference with the WiMAXsignal and that the first AP should switch transmission channels. Themethod further includes scanning for a second AP.

In still other features, the first sub-client module includes a WLANsub-client module and the second sub-client module includes a WiMAXsub-client module. The wireless network interface method furtherincludes selectively switching from a WLAN frequency to a WiMAXfrequency during the state. The wireless network interface methodfurther includes the WLAN sub-client module periodically receivingsignals during the state. The wireless network interface method furtherincludes skipping at least one of the periodic signals when the WiMAXsub-client module is due to receive signals. The wireless networkinterface method further includes selectively determining the state witha base station when WLAN sub-client module network connection quality isabove a WLAN network disconnect threshold.

In other features, the component sharing control module includes amedium MAC. The wireless network interface method further includes amobility manager module within the MAC selectively connecting the firstsub-client module and the second sub-client module to each of multipleAPs and base stations. The method further includes a coexistence controlmodule within the MAC controlling states of the first sub-client moduleand the second sub-client module. The states comprise idle, scan,network entry, registered, and active. The method further includesdetermining which of the first sub-client and the second sub-client haspriority for the component, and controlling the selective transitionsbased on the priority.

In still other features, a wireless network interface includes acomponent for interacting with a network. The interface includes firstsub-client module for operating with a first wireless protocol andsecond sub-client module for operating with a second wireless protocol.First and second wireless protocols are different. The first and secondsub-client module share use of the component. The interface alsoincludes component sharing module for selectively transitioning thefirst sub-client module into and out of a state to allow the secondsub-client module to use the component during the state.

In other features, at least one of the first sub-client module and thesecond sub-client module is active. At least one of the first sub-clientmodule and the second sub-client module includes at least one ofsub-client module for using WiMAX, sub-client module for using WLAN, andsub-client module for using Bluetooth.

In other features, the state includes a sleep state. The firstsub-client module sends a signal to the second sub-client moduleindicating the first sub-client module is entering the sleep state. Atleast one of the first sub-client module and the component sharingmodule prevents the second sub-client module from using the componentwithin a predetermined time. The predetermined time is the durationduring which the first sub-client module is scheduled to receive atransmission.

The component includes at least one of antenna for receiving signals andRF subsystem for processing the signals. The RF subsystem includes atleast one of filter for filtering the signals, switch for forwarding thesignals, transmitter for transmitting the signals, receiver forreceiving the signals, and base band processor for processing a baseband of the signals. The first sub-client module selectively reducessignal power to decrease signal interference with signals from thesecond sub-client module.

At least one of the first sub-client module and the component sharingmodule prevents the second sub-client module from receivingtransmissions within a predetermined time in which the first sub-clientmodule is scheduled to receive a transmission. The state includes atleast one of an idle state and a low power state.

The first sub-client module includes sub-client module for using WiMAXand the second sub-client module includes sub-client module for using aWLAN. The WLAN sub-client module transmits a reserve signal to thecomponent sharing module to reserve the component for a duration of timewhen the WiMAX sub-client module is due to receive a MAP. The reservesignal includes a CTS-Self protocol. The WLAN sub-client module receivestransmissions from network for communicating between devices. The WLANsub-client module sends transmissions to the network.

In other features, a system includes the wireless network interface. Thesystem also includes a base station for communicating with the network.The WiMAX sub-client module transmits a busy signal to the base stationduring WLAN sub-client module use of the component.

In other features, the WLAN sub-client module detects a WiMAX signalthrough at least one of a repeated MAP transmission and a signal fromthe WiMAX sub-client module. The system further includes a first AP foraccessing the network for the WLAN sub-client module. The WLANsub-client module informs the first AP of interference with the WiMAXsignal and that the first AP should switch transmission channels. TheWLAN sub-client module scans for a second AP for accessing the network.

In still other features, the first sub-client module includes sub-clientmodule for operating WLAN and the second sub-client module includessub-client module for operating WiMAX. The component includes radiofrequency (RF) subsystems that selectively switch from a WLAN frequencyto a WiMAX frequency during the state. The WLAN sub-client moduleperiodically receives signals during the state. At least one of theperiodic signals is skipped when the WiMAX sub-client module is due toreceive signals. The component sharing module selectively determines thestate with base station for communicating with the network when networkconnection quality for the WLAN sub-client module is above a WLANnetwork disconnect threshold. The base station communicates with theWiMAX sub-client module. The component sharing module includes a MAC foraccessing the network.

In other features, a system includes the wireless network interface andfurther includes APs for accessing the network and base station foraccessing the network. The MAC includes mobility manager module forselectively connecting the first sub-client module and the secondsub-client module to each of the APs and the base station. The MACfurther includes coexistence control module for controlling states ofthe first sub-client module and the second sub-client module. The statescomprise idle, scan, network entry, registered, and active. Thecoexistence control module determines which of the first sub-clientmodule and the second sub-client module has priority for the componentand controls the selective transitions based on the priority.

In still other features, a computer program stored for use by aprocessor for operating a wireless network interface includes operatinga first sub-client module using a first wireless protocol and operatinga second sub-client module using a second wireless protocol. The firstand second wireless protocols are different. The first and secondsub-client modules share use of a component. The computer programselectively transitions the first sub-client module into and out of astate to allow the second sub-client module to use the component duringthe state.

In other features, at least one of the first sub-client module and thesecond sub-client module includes an active sub-client. At least one ofthe first sub-client module and the second sub-client module includes atleast one of a WiMAX sub-client module, a WLAN sub-client module, and aBluetooth sub-client module. In the computer program, selectivelytransitioning the first sub-client module into and out of the stateincludes selectively transitioning the first sub-client module into andout of a sleep state.

In other features, the first sub-client module sends a signal to thesecond sub-client module indicating the first sub-client module isentering the sleep state. The computer program further includespreventing the second sub-client module from using the component withina predetermined time in which the first sub-client module is scheduledto receive a transmission. The component includes at least one of anantenna and a radio frequency (RF) subsystem.

In other features, the RF subsystem includes at least one of a filter, aswitch, a Tx, an Rx, and a BBP module. The computer program furtherincludes selectively reducing signal power to decrease signalinterference with signals from the second sub-client module. Thecomputer program further includes preventing the second sub-clientmodule from receiving transmissions within a predetermined time in whichthe first sub-client module is scheduled to receive a transmission. Thecomputer program selectively transitions the first sub-client moduleinto and out off at least one of an idle state and a low power state.

In other features, the first sub-client module includes a WiMAXsub-client module and the second sub-client module includes a WLANsub-client module. The computer program further includes transmitting areserve signal to the component sharing control module. The computerprogram also reserves the component for a duration of time when theWiMAX sub-client module is due to receive a MAP. The reserve signalincludes a CTS-Self protocol.

In other features, the WLAN sub-client module receives transmissionsfrom a network, and the WLAN sub-client module sends transmissions to anetwork. A base station communicates with a network, and the WiMAXsub-client module transmits a busy signal to the base station duringWLAN sub-client module use of the component.

In other features, the computer program further includes detecting aWiMAX signal through at least one of a repeated MAP transmission and asignal from the WiMAX sub-client module. The computer program furtherincludes informing the first AP of interference with the WiMAX signaland that the first AP should switch transmission channels. The computerprogram further includes scanning for a second AP.

In other features, the first sub-client module includes a WLANsub-client module and the second sub-client module includes a WiMAXsub-client module. The computer program further includes selectivelyswitching from a WLAN frequency to a WiMAX frequency during the state.The computer program further includes the WLAN sub-client moduleperiodically receiving signals during the state. The computer programfurther includes skipping at least one of the periodic signals when theWiMAX sub-client module is due to receive signals. The computer programfurther includes selectively determining the state with a base stationwhen WLAN sub-client module network connection quality is above a WLANnetwork disconnect threshold.

In other features, the component sharing control module includes amedium MAC. The computer program further includes selectively connectingthe first sub-client module and the second sub-client module to each ofmultiple APs and base stations. The computer program further includescontrolling states of the first sub-client module and the secondsub-client module. The states comprise idle, scan, network entry,registered, and active. The computer program further includesdetermining which of the first sub-client and the second sub-client haspriority for the component and controlling the selective transitionsbased on the priority.

Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples areintended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limitthe scope of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a coexistence system forwireless network devices;

FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram illustrating a method for sharingcomponents;

FIG. 3 is a state transition diagram for a WLAN sub-client;

FIG. 4 is a state transition diagram for a WiMAX sub-client;

FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating a method for sharingcomponents;

FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram illustrating a method for sharingcomponents;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a method for supportingcoexistence of multiple sub-clients;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a method for handoff ofcomponents between multiple sub-clients;

FIG. 9 is WiMAX signal time frame diagram including scheduled WLANactivation periods;

FIG. 10 is a protocol diagram for Unsolicited Automatic Power SaveDelivery (U-APSD) for a WLAN sub-client;

FIG. 11A is a functional block diagram of a vehicle control system;

FIG. 11B is a functional block diagram of a cellular phone;

FIG. 11C is a functional block diagram of a set top box; and

FIG. 11D is a functional block diagram of a media player.

DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no wayintended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. For purposesof clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings toidentify similar elements. As used herein, the term module, circuitand/or device refers to an Application Specific Integrated Circuit(ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group)and memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, acombinational logic circuit, and/or other suitable components thatprovide the described functionality. As used herein, the phrase at leastone of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A or B or C),using a non-exclusive logical or. It should be understood that stepswithin a method may be executed in different order without altering theprinciples of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure includes a coexistence system and method forwireless network devices with wireless network interfaces that support avariety of sub-clients including, for example, a Wireless Local AreaNetwork (WLAN) sub-client, a Worldwide Interoperability for MicrowaveAccess (WiMAX) sub-client, and a Bluetooth (BT) sub-client, which sharecomponents.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a coexistence system 10 for wireless networkdevices having multiple sub-clients that share components is shown.Wireless access points (AP) 12-1, 12-2, . . . , and 12-X (collectivelyAPs 12) and/or base stations 13-1, 13-2, . . . , and 13-X (collectivelybase stations 13) provide connections between a host 14 having awireless network interface 16 and networks 18-1, 18-2, . . . , and 18-Z,that may include the Internet 19. The APs 12 and base stations 13 maycommunicate with the networks through associated routers 20-1, 20-2, and20-Z. The wireless network interface 16 communicates with the APs 12,the base stations 13 and/or other wireless client stations 17. The host14 may be a personal digital assistant (PDA), mobile phone, laptop,personal computer (PC), printer, digital camera, or internet protocol(IP) phone.

The wireless network interface 16 may include shared components such asan antenna 22, radio frequency (RF) subsystems 23 (such as a filter 24,a switch 25, a transmitter (Tx) 26, a receiver (Rx) 27, and/or a baseband processor (BBP) module 28). Further, each sub-client may include anantenna, a filter, a switch, a Tx, an Rx, and/or a BBP module. Thewireless communications can be compliant with various protocolsincluding at least one of the Institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers (IEEE) standards 802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11h,802.11n, 802.16, 802.16a, 802.16e, 802.16-2004, and 802.20, and/or theBluetooth standard published by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group(SIG). The aforementioned standards are hereby incorporated by referencein their entirety.

The antenna 22 and RF subsystems 23 communicate with a media accesscontrol module (MAC) 29, which is also referred to herein as a componentsharing control module. The MAC 29 may include a mobility manager module30 that receives information about the availability and signal strengthof the APs 12 and/or base stations 13. The mobility manager module 30also selects one of the sub-clients to connect to the appropriate AP 12and/or base station 13 and informs a coexistence control module 31.Illustrated are a WLAN (WiFi) sub-client module 32, a WiMAX sub-clientmodule 34, and/or a Bluetooth sub-client module 35. The MAC 29communicates with the host 14 through I/O modules 33, 37 and alsocommunicates with a processor module 38, which may perform processingfor the network interface 16.

The WLAN, WiMAX, and Bluetooth sub-client modules 32, 34, 35 may be invarious states or modes, such as, but not limited to, idle, scan,network entry, registered, and active. These states may be controlled bythe coexistence control module 31 or the sub-client modules 32, 34. Whenin the idle state, a sub-client module 32, 34 is not connected to an APor base station and is also not scanning. When in the scan state, thesub-client module 32, 34 is not connected to an AP or base station butis receiving beacons or MAPs. When in the network entry state, thesub-client module 32, 34 has identified an AP or base station and is inthe process of undergoing network entry to register with the AP or basestation. When in the registered state, the sub-client module 32, 34 hascompleted network entry and has registered to the AP or base station butis not passing user data. When in the active state, the sub-clientmodule 32, 34 is passing user data. When multiple wireless accessdevices are in a single handheld device, the coexistence control module31 limits network entry to one sub-client module at a time. Further, thesub-client modules 32, 34 can transition to any other statesindependently to avoid simultaneous active state interference.Regardless of the state, when transmitting and/or receiving, thesub-client module may require use of shared components (antenna, RFsubsystem, etc.).

In each state, the power save properties, transmission, and receptionrequirements are different. In the idle state, both the transmitter andreceiver are inactive; and the sub-client module is consuming very lowpower. In the low power state, which may be any state other than activeand idle states, the sub-client module is transmitting or receiving dataat a very low rate or not at all. In the active state, the sub-clientmodule is actively transmitting and receiving data. Further, thesub-client modules may enter a sleep state that may include temporarilyentering an idle state or a low power state.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a method 100 for operating the coexistencecontrol module 31 is illustrated. In step 102, the coexistence controlmodule 31 may define a state of each sub-client module to indicate theactivation state of the sub-client module (idle, low power, active) anda priority of the sub-client module for component priority. Thecomponent priority may depend on the type of data (voice, non voice,management message etc.) to be transmitted. In step 104, a firstsub-client module may activate (change state to active) when all othersub-clients are idle. In step 106, the first sub-client module rechecksthe state of other sub-clients to verify that no race (i.e. twosub-client modules attempting to use shared components) conditionexists. If no other sub-client is competing for the components, in step108, the first sub-client module continues using the shared components.Otherwise, in step 110, the sub-client with higher priority gains accessto the shared components.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a state transition diagram 200 for a WLANsub-client module 32 is illustrated. In state 202, after receiving apower up complete signal, the WLAN sub-client module 32 enters an idlestate for a predetermined amount of time (or until commanded to scan bythe host 14) prior to scanning. In state 204, the WLAN sub-client module32 enters a scan state to scan for available APs until the coexistencecontrol module 31 commands the WLAN sub-client module 32 to performnetwork entry with an appropriate AP. In state 206, the WLAN sub-clientmodule 32 enters the network.

In state 208, after registering with the AP, the WLAN sub-client module32 enters into a low power state maintaining the connection with the APbut not passing data to the AP. In state 210, when informed by thecoexistence control module 31, the WLAN sub-client module 32 transitionsto the active state to pass user data to the AP. If the WiMAX sub-clientmodule 34 is used for data, the coexistence control module 31transitions the WLAN sub-client module 32 to a low power state, e.g., aregistered state, as in state 208. If the WLAN link drops, the WLANsub-client module 32 goes back to the idle state, as in state 202. Instate 212, the WLAN sub-client module 32 or the AP can deregister theWLAN sub-client module 32. The WLAN sub-client module 32 can return tothe registered state as in state 208. The WLAN sub-client module 32 canalso return to the idle state, as in state 202, and then scan foravailable APs.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a state transition diagram 200 for a WiMAXsub-client module 34 is illustrated. In state 220, after receiving apower up complete signal, the WiMAX sub-client module 34 enters an idlestate for a predetermined amount of time (or until commanded to scan bythe host 14) prior to scanning. In state 222, the WiMAX sub-clientmodule 34 enters a scan state to scan for available base stations untilthe coexistence control module 31 commands the WiMAX sub-client module34 to enter the network. In state 224, the WiMAX sub-client module 34enters the network.

In state 226, after registering with the base station, the WiMAXsub-client module 34 enters into a low power state maintaining theconnection with the base station but not passing data to the basestation. In state 228, when informed by the coexistence control module31, the WiMAX sub-client module 34 transitions to the active state topass user data to the base station. If the WLAN sub-client module 32 isused for user data, the coexistence control module 31 transitions theWiMAX sub-client module 34 to a registered state, as in state 226. Ifthe WiMAX link drops, the WiMAX sub-client module 34 goes back to theidle state, as in state 220. In state 230, the WiMAX sub-client module34 or the base station can deregister the WiMAX sub-client module 34.The WiMAX sub-client module 34 can return to the registered state as instate 226. The WiMAX sub-client module 34 can also return to the idlestate, as in state 218, and then scan for available base stations.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a sequence diagram 250 of a method for sharingcomponents between a low power sub-client 252 and an active sub-client254 is illustrated. Either or both the low power and active sub-clientsmay be WiMAX, WLAN, and/or Bluetooth sub-clients. When the low powersub-client 252 requires network interaction, the low power sub-client252 sends a request 256 to the active sub-client 254 for the sharedcomponents. The active sub-client 254 complies with the request 256,which may include acknowledging pending automatic repeat request (ARQ)packets, informing the AP that the active sub-client 254 will enter asleep state for a fixed duration, etc. Within a predetermined time 257,the active sub-client 254 sends an acknowledge signal 258 (ACK). The lowpower sub-client 252 then performs the intended functions (e.g.,transmitting or receiving on the shared components) and, within apredetermined expiration time 260, sends a transmit/receive completedmessage 264 to the active sub-client 254. The active sub-client 254 thenresponds with an acknowledge signal 266. The messages 256, 258, 264, 266can be sent through a set of registers or shared memory within the host14. The sub-clients 252, 254 can also use either polling during a commontime base or alternately interrupt requests (IRQ) to send and receivethe messages 256, 258, 264, 266.

In an alternate example, two sub-clients may be in a low power state.When the first low power sub-client requires the shared components, aninterrupt is sent by either the first low power sub-client or thecoexistence control module to the second low power sub-client, whichactivates to service the interrupt. The first low power sub-client cancheck the status of the second low power sub-client, and when the secondlow power sub-client is active, the sub-clients may follow the sequencediagram, as shown in FIG. 5. When the second low power sub-client is inlow power state, the first low power sub-client may take control of theshared components. After completing a transmit/receive, the first lowpower sub-client may relinquish control of the shared components.

In an exemplary embodiment, if the WLAN client knows when the WiMAXclient is expecting a MAP, it can transmit a CTS-Self reserving themedium for a fixed duration of time. The WiMAX client can then receivethe MAP without WLAN interference. This feature may be applied to ensurereception of all downlink or uplink transmissions.

Referring now to FIG. 6, an exemplary coexistence system is illustrated.The Bluetooth sub-client 272 is shown interfacing with the WLANsub-client. When the WLAN sub-client is in an active state, the WLANsub-client may abort transmissions and transfer shared component accessto the Bluetooth sub-client. When the WLAN sub-client is in a low powerstate, i.e. a low power sub-client 252, and the WiMAX sub-client is inan active state, i.e. the active sub-client 254, the Bluetoothsub-client 272 may send a priority request 274 to the WLAN low powersub-client 252 for access to the shared components. This request 274 mayinclude setting a clear channel assessment (CCA) signal of the WLANsub-client high. When a clear channel assessment signal is held high,the WiMAX active sub-client 254 may abort active state transmissions ofunits of data (packets). The WiMAX re-transmits the units of data at alater scheduled transmission period.

Within the predetermined time 257, the active (WiMAX) sub-client 254sends an acknowledge signal 258. The low power (WLAN) sub-client 252then sends an acknowledgement signal 276 to the Bluetooth sub-client272, which performs the intended functions 278 (e.g., transmitting orreceiving on the shared components). The low power sub-client 252,within the predetermined expiration time 260, sends a signal 280indicating that the low power sub-client 252 is resuming control of thecomponents. The low power sub-client 252 then sends a transmit/receivecompleted message 264 to the active sub-client 254 also within thepredetermined expiration time 260. The active sub-client sends anacknowledgement 266. The predetermined expiration time 260 correspondsto the regularly scheduled MAP and thus allows the active WiMAXsub-client 254 to avoid deregistration through interference from othersub-client operations.

To further ensure that the WiMAX sub-client will send or receive duringthe regularly scheduled MAP period without interference, the WiMAXsub-client may pass an offset value to the Bluetooth sub-client tooffset Bluetooth transmit/receive processes. Alternately, the Bluetoothsub-client may send a Bluetooth transmission/reception schedule to theWiMAX sub-client during a prescheduled time interval. The coexistencecontrol module may rearrange transmissions of the WiMAX sub-client tominimize Bluetooth WiMAX interference.

When both WLAN and WiMAX sub-client modules are active at the same time,the coexistence control module 31 checks that interference between WiMAXand WLAN sub-client modules is minimized. This includes checking thatthe WLAN sub-client module is associated with a particular AP andrestricting the WLAN sub-client module transmissions to a portion of aWiMAX uplink period. Both WLAN and WiMAX sub-client modules may alsofragment transmitted units of data or lower power output to ensureminimal interference. Also, one of the WLAN, WiMAX, and Bluetoothsub-clients may selectively reduce signal power to decrease signalinterference with signals from another one of the sub-client modules.

Important to note is that alternate embodiments of the presentdisclosure do not require the WLAN sub-client to wake up to service theBluetooth sub-client. Further, the coexistence control module 31 may runconstantly to track or detect which sub-client(s) is in sleep mode andwhich sub-client(s) is in active mode. Based on this coexistence controlmodule 31, sharing of common resources may simply be achieved betweenthe sub-client that requests the resource and the active sub-client.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a method 300 for managing coexistence ofmultiple sub-client modules is illustrated. In step 302, the low power(inactive) sub-client module requests components from the activesub-client module. In step 304, the active sub-client module selectivelytransitions to a sleep state or pattern and/or reserves a channel for afixed amount of time with the coexistence control module. The activesub-client module then sends indication back to the low power sub-clientmodule that the components are available. In step 306, the low powersub-client module transmits/receives with or through the components; andin step 308, within a predetermined time duration, the low powersub-client module hands back components to the active sub-client module.The active sub-client module and/or the low power sub-client module maybe one of WiMAX, WLAN, or Bluetooth.

Prior to or during the sleep state of an active WiMAX sub-client module,busy pattern is transmitted to the WiMAX base station. A base stationscheduler (not shown) may use the busy pattern to schedule transmissions(uplink and downlink) to and from the active WiMAX sub-client module.The busy pattern may include: Start frame, Offset, Interval, Busyduration, and Busy because of Bluetooth or WLAN. This pattern generallyindicates a Bluetooth sub-client module or WLAN sub-client module isusing the shared components.

When one sub-client module is expecting a downlink transmission, thesub-client module may set a carrier detect signal in the othersub-client module, thereby preventing the other sub-client module fromtransmitting and causing the other sub-client module to enter a randomback-off state. Low power sub-client modules may also hold an “AbortTransmit” signal in the active sub-client module to check that theactive sub-client module aborts transmission when the low powersub-client modules are receiving beacons, etc.

The WLAN sub-client module may detect a WiMAX signal either through arepeated MAP transmission or through an indication from the WiMAXsub-client module and inform the WLAN AP that it is experiencinginterference in the channel and that the AP should switch to a newchannel. Repeated MAP transmissions may be detected based on frameduration for WiMAX, which is typically 5 ms. The uplink and/or downlinkduty cycle could be ⅔ or ½ of the frame duration. Based on the frameduration interference pattern, the WLAN base station or access point candetect the presence of a WiMAX system. Also the WLAN sub-client or theco-existence control module could implement a preamble detector todetect the transmission of WiMAX.

If the AP does not switch to a new channel, the WLAN sub-client modulescans for APs on different channels. The channel selection may be basedon measured signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) during WiMAX interference, whichis a periodic interference. The channel selection may also be based onsome average signal-to-noise ratio over a greater time duration than theWiMAX time frame duration.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a handoff method 350 is illustrated where thesub-client module (e.g. WLAN sub-client module) after reaching a lowsignal quality threshold with the network, initiates handofftransmissions to the other sub-client module (e.g. WiMAX sub-clientmodule). For seamless handoff, no units of data (e.g. voice-overInternet protocol (VoIP), streaming video, or video conferencing unitsof data) should be dropped.

Referring now to FIG. 9 in view of FIG. 8, a portion of a WiMAXoperation time frame is illustrated. In step 352, when transmit/receivesignal quality drops below a disconnect (i.e., link lost) threshold forthe WLAN sub-client module, the WLAN sub-client module sends a trigger353 to the network (or an AP communicating with a WiMAX network). Thetrigger 353 is sent to a WIMAX base station to indicate that the WLANsub-client module is initiating a handoff to the WiMAX sub-client module(i.e. that a WiMAX client wants to enter the network). In step 354,after the WLAN sub-client module receives a confirmation from thenetwork (or the AP), the WLAN sub-client module begins the handoff tothe WiMAX sub-client module.

In step 356, the radio frequency subsystem switches from WLAN frequencyto a WiMAX frequency. In step 374, the WiMAX sub-client module initiatesa scan 359 for available WiMAX base stations within selectivelydetermined sleep pattern openings 361. The openings 361 may be dedicatedby the WLAN sub-client module through an Unsolicited Automatic PowerSave Delivery (U-APSD) protocol.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a U-APSD protocol 362 is illustrated for aWLAN sub-client module to transmit voice signals at low power. A WLANsub-client module quality of service enhanced station (QSTA) (not shown)sends quality of service (QoS) signal data 367 to an AP. The APacknowledges the signal (i.e., sends an ACK 369) and sends VoIP data 371to the QSTA. The WLAN wakes up after a predetermined time (e.g., 20 ms)and sends another QoS data signal 373, etc.

Referring again to FIGS. 8 and 9, step 374 may include scanning for asingle base station or all available base stations. In step 376, theWiMAX sub-client module or the mobility manager module checks thatreceived base station information matches desired base stationinformation. For a negative response, step 374 is repeated. Otherwise,in step 378, the WiMAX sub-client module starts a network entryprocedure 379. During network entry, the WiMAX sub-client modulereceives a downlink MAP for receiving data and an uplink MAP fortransmitting data. The sleep pattern openings 361 are not synchronous tothe downlink MAP or uplink MAP reception. The WLAN sub-client moduletherefore modifies the sleep openings accordingly.

When the uplink MAP indicates a transmit opportunity for the WiMAXsub-client module, and the WLAN station is transmitting units of dataduring a sleep pattern opening, the sleep pattern opening transmission365 may be skipped. WiMAX transmissions may also be skipped duringimportant WLAN operations for later retransmission. In step 380, aftercompleting network entry, the WiMAX sub-client module carries downlinkand uplink traffic. The WiMAX sub-client module may therefore remainsynchronized with a base station while a WLAN sub-client module isreceiving and transmitting data.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A-11D, various exemplary implementations of thepresent disclosure are shown. Referring now to FIG. 11A, the presentdisclosure may implement and/or be implemented in a wireless module 448of a vehicle 430. A powertrain control system 432 receives inputs fromone or more sensors such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors,rotational sensors, airflow sensors and/or any other suitable sensorsand/or that generates one or more output control signals such as engineoperating parameters, transmission operating parameters, and/or othercontrol signals.

The present disclosure may also be implemented in other control systems440 of the vehicle 430. The control system 440 may likewise receivesignals from input sensors 442 and/or output control signals to one ormore output clients 444. In some implementations, the control system 440may be part of an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a navigation system, atelematics system, a vehicle telematics system, a lane departure system,an adaptive cruise control system, a vehicle entertainment system suchas a stereo, DVD, compact disc and the like. Still other implementationsare contemplated.

The powertrain control system 432 may communicate with mass data storage446 that stores data in a nonvolatile manner. The mass data storage 446may include optical and/or magnetic storage clients for example harddisk drives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes oneor more platters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately1.8″. The powertrain control system 432 may be connected to memory 447such as RAM, ROM, low latency nonvolatile memory such as flash memoryand/or other suitable electronic data storage. The powertrain controlsystem 432 also may support connections with a wireless system viawireless module 448. Vehicle 430 may also include a power supply 433.

Referring now to FIG. 11B, the present disclosure can be implemented ina cellular phone 450 that may include a cellular antenna 451. Thepresent disclosure may implement and/or be implemented in a wirelessmodule 468. In some implementations, the cellular phone 450 includes amicrophone 456, an audio output 458 such as a speaker and/or audiooutput jack, a display 460 and/or an input client 462 such as a keypad,pointing client, voice actuation and/or other input client. The signalprocessing and/or control circuits 452 and/or other circuits (not shown)in the cellular phone 450 may process data, perform coding and/orencryption, perform calculations, format data and/or perform othercellular phone functions.

The cellular phone 450 may communicate with mass data storage 464 thatstores data in a nonvolatile manner such as optical and/or magneticstorage clients for example hard disk drives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDDmay be a mini HDD that includes one or more platters having a diameterthat is smaller than approximately 1.8″. The cellular phone 450 may beconnected to memory 466 such as RAM, ROM, low latency nonvolatile memorysuch as flash memory and/or other suitable electronic data storage. Thecellular phone 450 also may support connections with a wireless systemvia wireless module 468. Cellular phone 450 may also include a powersupply 453.

Referring now to FIG. 11C, the present disclosure can be implemented ina set top box 480. The present disclosure may implement and/or beimplemented in a wireless module 496. The set top box 480 receivessignals from a source such as a broadband source and outputs standardand/or high definition audio/video signals suitable for a display 488such as a television and/or monitor and/or other video and/or audiooutput clients. The signal processing and/or control circuits 484 and/orother circuits (not shown) of the set top box 480 may process data,perform coding and/or encryption, perform calculations, format dataand/or perform any other set top box function.

The set top box 480 may communicate with mass data storage 490 thatstores data in a nonvolatile manner. The mass data storage 490 mayinclude optical and/or magnetic storage clients for example hard diskdrives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes one ormore platters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately 1.8″.The set top box 480 may be connected to memory 494 such as RAM, ROM, lowlatency nonvolatile memory such as flash memory and/or other suitableelectronic data storage. The set top box 480 also may supportconnections with a wireless system via wireless module 496. Set top box480 may also include a power supply 483.

Referring now to FIG. 11D, the present disclosure can be implemented ina media player 500. The present disclosure may implement and/or beimplemented in a wireless module 516. In some implementations, the mediaplayer 500 includes a display 507 and/or a user input 508 such as akeypad, touchpad and the like. In some implementations, the media player500 may employ a graphical user interface (GUI) that typically employsmenus, drop down menus, icons and/or a point-and-click interface via thedisplay 507 and/or user input 508. The media player 500 further includesan audio output 509 such as a speaker and/or audio output jack. Thesignal processing and/or control circuits 504 and/or other circuits (notshown) of the media player 500 may process data, perform coding and/orencryption, perform calculations, format data and/or perform any othermedia player function.

The media player 500 may communicate with mass data storage 510 thatstores data such as compressed audio and/or video content in anonvolatile manner. In some implementations, the compressed audio filesinclude files that are compliant with MP3 format or other suitablecompressed audio and/or video formats. The mass data storage may includeoptical and/or magnetic storage clients for example hard disk drives HDDand/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes one or moreplatters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately 1.8″. Themedia player 500 may be connected to memory 514 such as RAM, ROM, lowlatency nonvolatile memory such as flash memory and/or other suitableelectronic data storage. The media player 500 also may supportconnections with a wireless system via wireless module 516. Media player500 may also include a power supply 513. Still other implementations inaddition to those described above are contemplated.

Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoingdescription that the broad teachings of the present disclosure can beimplemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while this disclosure hasbeen described in connection with particular examples thereof, the truescope of the disclosure should not be so limited since othermodifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon astudy of the drawings, the specification and the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A network interface comprising: a radio frequency system configured to wirelessly communicate with an access point; and a media access controller comprising a plurality of client modules, wherein the plurality of client modules comprise a first client module and a second client module, the first client module is configured to transmit a first signal from a host to the access point via the radio frequency system in accordance with a first wireless communication standard, the second client module is configured to transmit a second signal from the host to the access point via the radio frequency system in accordance with a second wireless communication standard, and the first wireless communication standard is different than the second wireless communication standard, and wherein the second client module is configured to determine a quality level of the second signal transmitted from the second client module to the access point, and based on the quality level of the second signal transmitted from the second client module to the access point, handoff access to the radio frequency system from the second client module to the first client module to allow the first client module to transmit the first signal to the access point via the radio frequency system.
 2. The network interface of claim 1, further comprising a control module configured to (i) determine a first priority level of the first client module, (ii) determine a second priority level of the second client module, and (iii) based on the first priority level and the second priority level: control the first client module to be in an active state to permit communication between the first client module and the radio frequency system; and control the second client module to be in a sleep state to prevent communication between the second client module and the radio frequency system.
 3. The network interface of claim 2, wherein the second client module is configured to: transmit a reserve signal to the control module to reserve an antenna and the radio frequency system, wherein the reserve signal indicates reserving the antenna and the radio frequency system during a period when the first client module is to receive a mobile signal, and wherein the mobile signal indicates send times and receive times allocated for the first client module; and skip transmissions during the period when the first client module is to receive the mobile signal.
 4. The network interface of claim 2, wherein: the plurality of client modules comprising a third client module; the third client module is in communication with the radio frequency system via the second client module; and the control module is configured to prevent interference between (i) signals transmitted between the first client module and a network, and (ii) signals transmitted between the third client module and the network, and when preventing the interference, rearrange transmissions of the first client module and third client module.
 5. The network interface of claim 1, wherein the first wireless communication standard and the second wireless communication standard are each (i) a wireless local area network protocol, (ii) a packet-based protocol of a wireless personal area network, or (iii) a protocol enabling wireless broadband access for a last mile of communication.
 6. The network interface of claim 1, wherein the radio frequency system comprises: a transmitter configured to transmit or receive a plurality of signals via an antenna; a switch configured to (i) connect the antenna to the transmitter when the switch is in a first state, and (ii) connect the receiver to the antenna when the switch is in a second state; and a processor module configured to process the first signals and the second signals, wherein the processor module is connected between the (i) transmitter and the receiver, and (ii) the media access controller.
 7. The network interface of claim 1, wherein the first client module is configured to prevent the second client module from receiving transmissions from a network during a period when the first client module is scheduled to receive a transmission from the network.
 8. The network interface of claim 1, wherein the second client module is configured to remain synchronized with a base station in a network while the first client module receives and transmits data via the radio frequency system.
 9. The network interface of claim 1, wherein: the plurality of client modules comprising a third client module; the third client module is in communication with the radio frequency system via the second client module; and the first client module is configured to, while the third client module uses the radio frequency system, maintain registration with (i) the access point, or (ii) a base station in a network.
 10. The network interface of claim 1, wherein: the plurality of client modules comprising a third client module; the third client module is in communication with the radio frequency system via the second client module; the first client module is configured to transmit an offset value to the third client module; the third client module is configured to avoid interference with a mobile signal by transmitting and receiving based on the offset value; the mobile signal indicates send and receive times for the second client module; and the second client module is configured to receive the mobile signal from a network.
 11. A network interface comprising: a radio frequency system configured to wirelessly communicate with an access point over a network; and a media access controller comprising a plurality of client modules, wherein the plurality of client modules comprise a first client module and a second client module, the first client module is configured to transmit to or receive from the access point a first signal on a first channel via the radio frequency system and in accordance with a first wireless communication standard, the second client module is configured to transmit to or receive from the network a second signal via the radio frequency system in accordance with a second wireless communication standard, and the first wireless communication standard is different than the second wireless communication standard, wherein the first client module is configured to (i) detect the second signal, (ii) inform the access point of interference between the first signal and the second signal, and (iii) based on the interference, signal the access point to switch to a channel different than the first channel.
 12. The network interface of claim 11, further comprising a control module configured to (i) determine a first priority level of the first client module, (ii) determine a second priority level of the second client module, and (iii) based on the first priority level and the second priority level: control the first client module to be in an active state to permit communication between the first client module and the radio frequency system; and control the second client module to be in a sleep state to prevent communication between the second client module and the radio frequency system.
 13. The network interface of claim 12, wherein the second client module is configured to: transmit a reserve signal to the control module to reserve an antenna and the radio frequency system, wherein the reserve signal indicates reserving the antenna and the radio frequency system during a period when the first client module is to receive a mobile signal, and wherein the mobile signal indicates send times and receive times allocated for the first client module; and skip transmissions during the period when the first client module is to receive the mobile signal.
 14. The network interface of claim 12, wherein: the plurality of client modules comprising a third client module; the third client module is in communication with the radio frequency system via the second client module; the control module is configured to prevent interference between (i) signals transmitted between the first client module and the network, and (ii) signals transmitted between the third client module and the network; and the control module is configured to, when preventing the interference, rearrange transmissions of the first client module and third client module.
 15. The network interface of claim 11, wherein the first wireless communication standard and the second wireless communication standard are each one of (i) a wireless local area network protocol, (ii) a packet-based protocol of a wireless personal area network, or (iii) a protocol enabling wireless broadband access for a last mile of communication.
 16. The network interface of claim 11, wherein the radio frequency system comprises: a transmitter configured to transmit or receive a plurality of signals via an antenna; a switch configured to (i) connect the antenna to the transmitter when the switch is in a first state, and (ii) connect the receiver to the antenna when the switch is in a second state; and a processor module configured to process the first signals and the second signals, wherein the processor module is connected between the (i) transmitter and the receiver, and (ii) the media access controller.
 17. The network interface of claim 11, wherein the first client module is configured to prevent the second client module from receiving transmissions from the network during a period when the first client module is scheduled to receive a transmission from the network.
 18. The network interface of claim 11, wherein the second client module is configured to remain synchronized with a base station in the network while the first client module receives and transmits data via the radio frequency system.
 19. The network interface of claim 11, wherein: the plurality of client modules comprising a third client module; the third client module is in communication with the radio frequency system via the second client module; and the first client module is configured to, while the third client module uses the radio frequency system, maintain registration with (i) the access point, or (ii) a base station in the network.
 20. The network interface of claim 11, wherein: the plurality of client modules comprising a third client module; the third client module is in communication with the radio frequency system via the second client module; the first client module is configured to transmit an offset value to the third client module; the third client module is configured to avoid interference with a mobile signal by transmitting and receiving based on the offset value; the mobile signal indicates send and receive times for the second client module; and the second client module is configured to receive the mobile signal from the network.
 21. The network interface of claim 1, further comprising a control module in communication with the first client module and the second client module, wherein the second client module is configured to transmit a reserve signal to the control module to reserve an antenna and the radio frequency system, wherein the reserve signal indicates reserving the antenna and the radio frequency system during a period when the first client module is to receive a mobile signal, and wherein the mobile signal indicates send times and receive times allocated for the first client module, and skip transmissions during the period when the first client module is to receive the mobile signal.
 22. The network interface of claim 1, wherein: the first client module is configured to transmit the first signal to the access point on a first channel; the second client module is configured to transmit the second signal to at least one of a network or the access point; and the first client module is configured to (i) detect the second signal, (ii) inform the access point of interference between the first signal and the second signal, and (iii) based on the interference, signal the access point to switch to a channel different than the first channel.
 23. The network interface of claim 11, further comprising a control module in communication with the first client module and the second client module, wherein the second client module is configured to transmit a reserve signal to the control module to reserve an antenna and the radio frequency system, wherein the reserve signal indicates reserving the antenna and the radio frequency system during a period when the first client module is to receive a mobile signal, and wherein the mobile signal indicates send times and receive times allocated for the first client module, and skip transmissions during the period when the first client module is to receive the mobile signal.
 24. The network interface of claim 11, wherein the second client module is configured to transmit to or receive from the access point the second signal via the network. 